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Competence Centre Optics

Unique in Europe. A state-of-the-art test facility for the development and qualification of electro-optical systems.

Competence Centre Optics

Unique in Europe. A state-of-the-art test facility for the development and qualification of electro-optical systems.

Competence Centre Optics

Unique in Europe. A state-of-the-art test facility for the development and qualification of electro-optical systems.

Competence Centre Optics

Unique in Europe. A state-of-the-art test facility for the development and qualification of electro-optical systems.

Competence Center Optics

Unique in Europe. A state-of-the-art test facility for the development and qualification of electro-optical systems.

Competence Center Optics

Unique in Europe. A state-of-the-art test facility for the development and qualification of electro-optical systems.

Qualification Tests at the Highest Level

The IABG Space Centre's new thermo-optical test facility for conducting development and qualification tests on Earth observation satellites and electro-optical systems is now operational. Electro-optical systems enable the detection of even the smallest details on Earth from space. Rather than pattern recognition, they rely on computer-aided data conversion. These systems are strategically important, serving various purposes, including foreign and security policy, defense and climate and environmental policy, such as assessing forest damage or monitoring agricultural activities from space.

Top-Class Test System

Space-based Earth observation and reconnaissance systems with optical payloads must meet the highest standards. Consequently, test facilities with advanced technical capabilities for qualification, calibration and functional testing of electro-optical systems and components are essential.

The new Competence Centre Optics (CCO) addresses this need and is the latest addition to our Space Centre.

Alongside providing and operating the CCO, we offer expertise in the calibration and verification of optical payload systems. Our team of optical specialists also assists customers with general inquiries regarding optical measurements and test setup design.

The CCO represents one of the most significant milestones in our over 50-year history in space exploration
Christian Henjes

Head of Space Centre

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Core Elements of the Competence Centre

Centerpiece of the Test Facility

Thermal Vacuum Chamber

The system is designed on a modular concept with two thermal vacuum chamber (TV) elements. The TV chamber has a usable diameter of 5 meters and a length of 14 meters. Below, the optical bench extends into both ISO-5 areas. Individually controlled thermal walls (shrouds) on the chamber's interior walls create a highly stable thermal environment. The TV chamber is connected to the hall floor and spans the spring-mounted optical bench, yet both remain vibration-decoupled from each other.

Optical Ground Support Element

The Optical Ground Support Equipment (OGSE) consists of the primary OGSE for the characterization of the test objects and the secondary OGSE for the alignment and monitoring of the OGSE and the test object to be tested.

The characterization of the optical performance is possible under ambient or vacuum conditions, maintaining purity requirements according to ISO 5. Two test configurations are possible:

  • OGSE provided by IABG
    For the characterization of optical instruments with large apertures, the OGSE must be set up inside the TV chamber to minimize environmental disturbances (e.g. due to optical windows or ambient conditions). The cleanliness requirements according to ISO 5 are met. Both TV chamber elements are connected to each other for this purpose (long configuration).
  • OGSE provided by the customer
    For the characterization of optical instruments with small apertures, the OGSE can be installed outside the TV chamber in front of the chamber lid on the same optical bench. A darkroom for operating the OGSE can be installed between the ISO 5 South area and the chamber lid. A suitable optical window ensures a good view of the test specimen inside the chamber.

Optical Bench

Two spring-mounted masses, known as Optical Bench Installations (OBI), are integrated into the floor of the ISO 8 test hall to ensure vibration decoupling in accordance with VDI 2038 VC-E. The first spring-mounted mass (OBI 1) supports the TV chamber above it. Each optical bench segment provides a usable area of 2.6 m x 6.8 m with an 80 mm x 80 mm mounting grid. The maximum load capacity, including the test specimen and equipment, is 6,000 kg.

Infrastructure

  • The CCO and the Space Centre are connected via the main loading gate, allowing transfers in compliance with ISO 8 cleanliness standards.
  • ISO 5 areas are located on both sides of the TV chamber, providing clean rooms for the preparation of test specimens and OGSE setup.
  • The modular TV chamber with the optical bench is situated in the ISO 8 test hall between the ISO 5 areas.
  • Control rooms, offices and meeting rooms have direct access to the test hall.

IABG Space Centre

For over 50 years, IABG has been at the forefront of space exploration. Our Space Centre offers a comprehensive suite of environmental and qualification testing, technical analyses, studies and consulting services, all under one roof. We bring deep expertise in developing test-relevant MGSE and building custom test facilities for our clients. Nearly every major German and European aerospace project has benefited from our support. As an independent entity, we pride ourselves on our objectivity, neutrality and freedom from external influences, ensuring unbiased decisions.

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